Description:
A Fine Italian 19th-20th Century Bronze Bust Figure of Il Filosofo (The Philosopher), cast from a model by Vincenzo Gemito, depicting an elder bearded man with a straight gaze, fitted on a circular stand. Signed GEMITO and some markings. Circa: Naples, 1900.
Il Filosofo" (The Philosopher) is a bronze bust sculpted by Vincenzo Gemito. It is one of his most well-known works and is considered a masterpiece of 19th-century Italian sculpture. The bust was inspired by the bust of the so-called Seneca in the Museo Nazionale in Naples. Gemito also modeled the bust after his adopted father, Francesco Jadiciccio, who was a house painter.
Inspired by the "Pseudo-Seneca" bust: The bust of the so-called Seneca in the Museo Nazionale in Naples, also known as the "Pseudo-Seneca" bust, served as an inspiration for Gemito in creating "Il Filosofo". This highlights Gemito's engagement with classical sculpture and his desire to bring a similar sense of depth and artistry to his own work.
Modeled after his adopted father: Francesco Jadiciccio, affectionately known as Masto Ciccio, served as the model for "Il Filosofo". The bust captures a sense of personal portraiture while also incorporating the artistic conventions of antiquity, such as the use of a textured beard to signify the subject's status as a philosopher.
A Masterpiece of Eloquent Realism: "Il Filosofo" is celebrated for its "intensely eloquent realism," showcasing a carefully rendered physiognomy and a psychological depth that reveals the sitter's whole biography.
Modeled in 1883: Gemito first created the model for "Il Filosofo" in 1883.
Cast in his own Foundry: Gemito cast "Il Filosofo" in his own foundry in the via Mergellina, which he established with the support of Oscar de Mesnil.
Multiple Casts and Variations: The bust was highly successful, and many casts were made. Gemito also revisited the motif of the philosopher throughout his career, creating variations of the 1883 bust with more naturalistic modeling and greater detail.
Height: 20 inches (51 cm)
Width: 9 1/2 inches (24 cm)
Depth: 8 3/4 inches (22 cm)
Ref.: A2863
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